Oceanic sharks and rays have declined by over 70 percent

Between 1970 and 2018, rays and sharks have significantly declined due to overfishing, with over three-quarters of shark species now threatened with extinction. A study in Nature highlights that out of 31 oceanic shark and ray species, three are critically endangered, 13 are endangered, and others are vulnerable or near threatened. Critically endangered species like the oceanic white tip shark have seen population declines of over 80%. However, some species, such as the great white shark, are recovering due to science-based catch limits. The study attributes these declines to long line fishing, which has increased twofold in the past 50 years, catching three times as many sharks.

Between 1970 and 2018, what was the primary reason for the decline in oceanic rays and sharks?

• Climate change

• Habitat loss

• Pollution

• Overfishing

How many species of oceanic sharks and rays are classified as 'Least Concern'?

• 3

• 6

• 13

• 31

Which of the following is a critically endangered shark species?

• Dusky Shark

• Pelagic Thresher

• Oceanic White Tip Shark

• Great White Shark

What has contributed to the recovery of some shark species?

• Habitat destruction

• Climate change

• Science-based catch limits

• Increased pollution

What is a significant impact of long-line fishing?

• It is a sustainable fishing method

• It selectively catches only target species

• It reduces water pollution

• It indiscriminately catches fish and wildlife